GCC - Supply Chain Facilitation Measures in KSA, UAE, and Oman
In light of the current regional circumstances and operational challenges, collective efforts are being made by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states to maintain trade continuity and operational efficiency.
Please see below the key highlights of the latest supply chain enhancement measures undertaken in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Oman respectively:
Authority |
Core Strategy |
Operational Measures |
Reference |
| Oman – The Royal police’ General Directorate of Customs |
Oman
|
On 31 March 2026, the Royal Oman Police General Directorate of Customs issued Update No. 3, mandating all shipping and navigation agents to submit cargo manifests electronically via the "Bayan" system. Effective 3 May 2026, these submissions must be completed at least 36 hours prior to a vessel's arrival at Omani ports. This directive is in alignment with the Royal Decree No. 28/2026 and the GCC Customs Law.
|
See Link |
| UAE – Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) |
Abu Dhabi Launches AI driven Supply Chain Support Platform - “ADEED” |
On 31 March 2026, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration with 7X, launched the ADEED platform; alongside strategic partners like the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI), Abu Dhabi Customs, and the Abu Dhabi Quality & Conformity Council (ADQCC). ADEED is a support supply chain platform that utilizes AI and aims to:
|
See Link
ADEED Portal - Link |
KSA - Zakat, |
Transit trade facilitation measure: |
On 5 April 2026, the ZATCA announced the removal of two major requirements for transit movements within Saudi ports. The two requirements removed are the following:
|
See Link |
Deloitte’s view
These strategic measures undertaken by the authorities in KSA, the UAE and Oman reflect a proactive regional strategy to provide regulatory flexibility and prioritize operational agility over tradition processes, solidifying its position as a global logistics hub.
Key impacts for businesses:
- Improved liquidity for stakeholders by releasing capital previously tied to bank guarantee requirements for transit trade.
- Pre-arrival submission provides faster clearance and reduces port times.
- Temporary facilitations measures provide alternatives during maritime or air cargo disruptions.
- Utilizing AI enhances the resilience and adaptability of supply chains.
By removing financial barriers like bank guarantee, automating manifest submissions, integrating AI in ports platforms, and opening alternative land corridors, the GCC is strengthening the future readiness of its supply chain. This collective movement not only mitigates current global logistics disruptions but also signals a deeper commitment to transforming the region into a highly integrated and frictionless global trade hub.
